The pessimistic atmosphere in shipping and shipbuilding industry is still hanging over the market although the venue of Marinetec China 2011 is full of thriving business exchanges.
According to Zhang Shengkun, director of SSNAME, new orders won by Chinese shipyards in 2011 are much lower than the same period in 2010, especially orders for bulkers and tankers. On the contrary, high value-added vessels, green ships and offshore plants orders perform much better. However, this doesn’t mean China has successfully entered high-end shipbuilding market in the overall sluggish environment, said Zhang.
The Marinetec China 2011, held in Shanghai New International Expo Center on 29th November, is the ever largest one with the venue 40% larger than 2099. 1650 exhibitors from 31 countries and areas attended the expo.
Some bank officials put forward that some foreign banks providing ship financing support and loans have began to withdraw from Chinese market. Moreover, Chinese banks control ship loans more strictly, which makes the situations for shipyards and shipowners more severe.
Nevertheless, some insiders believe this is good chance for Chinese shipbuilding industry to make structural adjustments for stronger competitiveness.